Betel nut is also called areca nut and is the fruit of the areca palm tree. It is found mostly in South Pacific regions and in India, but can be grown in any place that has a warm tropical climate. It is used as a stimulant. It is usually powdered and used as betel quid, along with betel leaves, tobacco, lime and flavorings like fennel seeds. It is believed to be psychologically addictive but there is no documented evidence for this.
Its use is mostly concentrated around India, Cambodia, Malaysia, Taiwan and to some extent in China. There has been no evidence of its popularity in the United States. It is known to be harmful and can cause a number of problems like cancer, fibrosis, lesions and so on.
Betel nut and oral cancer – Is there a link?
Those who use betel nut or betel quid usually keep it in their mouth for extended periods of time, sometimes overnight. Research shows that it can cause or increase the risk of oral lesions and sub-mucous fibrosis, that may be precursors to cancer, as well as squamous cell carcinoma, a type of oral cancer. It can also worsen other health conditions like asthma, heart palpitations and low blood pressure. But the major health hazard from continuous extended use of areca nut is oral cancer.
Research studies about the effects of betel nut almost certainly establish a clear link between use of betel nut and oral cancer as well as cancers of the liver, stomach, prostate, cervix and lungs. Certain chemicals found in betel nut are known to be carcinogenic. Also, if betel nut or betel quid is used along with alcohol, it is known to further increase the risk of oral and other cancers.
Statistics indicate that almost 35 percent of cancer patients in the Indian sub-continent are known to be suffering from squamous cell carcinoma. This is one of the most common cancers worldwide, a major cause of it being the use of areca nut. A large percentage of individuals suffering from this type of cancer are young women who are regular users of areca nut but do not consume tobacco or tobacco products.
In addition, some other chemicals present in areca nut may be highly toxic and can cause allergic reactions and other side-effects like changes in skin color, dilated pupils, urinary incontinence, increased salivation, nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps and chest pain. Some individuals may also experience seizures due to intake of large amounts of betel nut or betel quid. Sometimes, toxic chemicals like lead or aflatoxin (a chemical produced by mold) may be added to betel quid, further worsening the health effects due to its use.
Betel nut, if consumed on a regular basis for an extended period of time, can cause or worsen cancers as well as a number of other health conditions. It is, therefore, advisable to stay away from betel nut, betel quid or any other products containing betel nut or its components.
